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US Allows Venezuelan Government to Fund Maduro's Legal Defense

KVIA•Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 1:30 PM•CNN Newsource

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In a significant development, the U.S. government has permitted Venezuela to finance the legal defense of Nicolás Maduro, who is facing criminal charges. This decision comes after federal prosecutors communicated with the overseeing judge, indicating that the Treasury Department would amend a license to allow payments to Maduro's attorneys under specific conditions. The legal fees can be paid from funds available to the Venezuelan government after March 5, 2026. Maduro and his wife, both of whom have pleaded not guilty, are accused of participating in a narco-terrorism conspiracy. This ruling marks the end of a legal standoff, as the Maduros' legal team has withdrawn their challenge against the indictment.

Key Details: • Payments for legal fees can be made from Venezuelan government funds after March 5, 2026. • Nicolás Maduro and his wife are facing charges related to a narco-terrorism conspiracy. • Both have pleaded not guilty to the charges. • Judge Alvin Hellerstein expressed skepticism about the government's position on the case.

sanctions legal venezuela maduro criminal-charges

People & Organizations

U.S. Treasury DepartmentNicolás MaduroDelcy RodríguezAlvin Hellerstein

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